Dan Rafael

(12:00 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks! Big weekend of fights with HBO, Showtime and Top Rank Live, not to mention the return of Erik Morales on PPV. So we have plenty to discuss. And there is also next week's Jones-Hopkins rematch and on and on. New notebook is up, so check it out. Also new blogs this week and the schedule is updated, so let's get right to it.

Bryant (Pitt)

Danimal do you think Eddie did ALL that he could possibly do to win last Saturday or was he just that much outclassed to begn with?

Dan Rafael

(12:03 PM)

I think Chambers tried but simply had ZERO answer or ability to a thing offensively with Wladimir Klitschko. It was no-win situation from the moment they signed the contract. I thought it would be a massacre and it was. It's not because Eddie is no good. He's very good. But he had no chance to match up with Wlad physically, when Wlad is even more talented that he is.

Chris (Riverside, CA)

The four most terrifying words in boxing: "We're negotiating with King."

Bryant (Pitt)

DTM good notebook (after the pacman blog and Morales article the big guy is hard at it!) Do you think if Dirrell were to lose he will use his back as an excuse?

Dan Rafael

(12:05 PM)

Thanks, and don't forget the news stories, updated p4p, updated divisional rankings and the daily updates to the schedule! If Dirrell loses, I don't think he will use the back as an excuse. He says it's feeling good. More than a week ago, he said it was 90 percent. If he goes through with the fight, he should not use it as an excuse if he indeed loses.

goinkel (jackson heights)

Hi Dan, Who do you like between Dirrell and King Arthur?

Dan Rafael

(12:05 PM)

It's an interesting fight because their styles are so different. I can see Dirrell controlling things and outboxing him a bit but I also see Abraham eventually finding him and stopping him late.

Jeff (New Orleans)

Is Dirrell's style (speed and angles) the perfect way to defeat Abraham (if he can last)?

Dan Rafael

(12:07 PM)

You said it -- if he can last. Certainly, Dirrell has the talent, speed and skills to win the fight. But Abraham is such a durable guy who also has excellent defense. He's so physical that he may be able to slow Dirrell down and eventually catch him. The thing about Abraham is it only takes one shot. He is a crushing puncher who also has skills even if they are not as good as Dirrell's.

Christopher (Kalamazoo, MI)

Dan, the Soto-Peterson fight being taken off the Cotto-Foreman card looks like the preamble to another crappy Top Rank undercard. At least this on isn't PPV.

Dan Rafael

(12:07 PM)

HBO and Arum are discussing what other fight to put on the HBO undercard June 5. They have a few ideas but so far nothing concrete.

Lee (Montreal, Canada)

Dan,You are the man, we love you up here in Canada...keep up the great work. I saw Facing Ali this week (great movie BTW) and was wondering where would you rank Chuvalo's chin all time in the HW division?

Dan Rafael

(12:08 PM)

Thanks. That was a terrific documentary. I really enjoyed it. Chuvalo had one of the best chins EVER period, not just in the heavyweight division.

bubba (ottawa il)

Dan, No problem with the JMM-Diaz rematch. But HBO PPV??? I mean really? Diaz is coming off a loss and its safe to say his best days are behind him. JMM is still a main event fighter, but i dont get HBO PPV picking this fight up. Thoughts?

Dan Rafael

(12:10 PM)

HBO has some other summer committments and Golden Boy wants to do the fight in July, so they are working things out. There is a market for the fight. I don't think anyone expects 700,000 buys for it. It is what it is. HBO's budget is tight and they have other fights they want to do and are obligated to do. Golden Boy is one of its partners, so they are helping them out with this. If the deal is done, this will be a true HBO PPV fight -- in other words it will look like an HBO show because HBO will produce it and you'll the HBO graphics and hear the HBO announcers.

Jim (Cali)

Any chance whatsoever, with the setting and crowd expected... that Arum and HBo can fund a JuanMa Conception fight? The possible fall of the last PR star and rise of the next one

Dan Rafael

(12:10 PM)

Juanma-Concepcion is going to be in July on Showtime. That is what Bob Arum told me the other day.

JB (Toronto)

Insane weekend. What are you watching live and what's bound for Tivo?

Dan Rafael

(12:12 PM)

Good question. I have no decided. I will probably watch Abraham-Dirrell live and maybe the Morales-Alfaro main event. I will probably check in on HBO when I can. I will DVR Top Rank Live for sure and watch it later. I will put everything on the DVR so I can burn DVDs later.

South Fork Walter (LA, CA)

Hey Dan! Thanks for the shoutout in the blog! All of my friends and family were texting me and asking if it was me you were talking about. Fight Freak for life!

Dan Rafael

(12:12 PM)

Awesome. I have the picture of us together in the gift shop!! Long live Southfork Walter the Filipino Fight Freak!

Carlton (Hartford, CT)

Dan, great Notebook. Really looking forward to the fights tomorrow. Do you have any idea on what ticket sales have been like for the Dirrell-Abraham bout?

Dan Rafael

(12:14 PM)

Good question. Honestly, I have no idea what the ticket sales are like for the fight. I hope they are good. Detroit is a great boxing city that has not had much action lately. There is a big undercard with a lot of local guys, including Ronald Hearns. Hopefully, the folks will turn out.

Khalil (Atlanta, GA)

Calling it now...Dirrell by decision.

Billy (Lexington, KY)

Dan, are there any opponents (besides maybe Haye) that HBO would televise against the Klitschkos?

Dan Rafael

(12:15 PM)

I think a rematch between Wladimir and Sam Peter is something they might do. I think if Povetkin ever takes the fight with Wlad, HBO would also be interested. I think maybe Wlad against the winner of Adamek-Arreola is possible. Vitali against Solis, who could become the mandatory pretty soon, is also a fight it might have interest in.

Daniel (Wilmington,Ca)

Tons of great fights this weekend and Wrestlemania 26 is on Sunday. Only bad thing is we don't get to see some of the fights this week here in the states. Predictions: Abraham, Maidana, Funeka, and The Undertaker. Hbk is going down!

Dan Rafael

(12:16 PM)

Long live the Undertaker!!!!!!!!! I am pyshced for WrestleMania!

Jerrell (huntsville,al): [via mobile]

Will there be a rad chat tomorrow night?

Dan Rafael

(12:16 PM)

Maybe.

Milton (Raleigh)

There are rumors that Manny Steward will be head trainer for Cotto and replace Santiago. There are rumors that Manny Steward will be a consultant for Yuri Foreman. Can you shed insight?

Dan Rafael

(12:17 PM)

He has been courted by both sides and a decision should be coming soon.

Bryant (Pitt)

Dan any chance we get Dibella/Loew by the end of year on HBO ?

Dan Rafael

(12:17 PM)

Wouldn't that be fun?

Bo Bo Brazil (Detroit, MI.)

Mr Rafael,Please inform Jack Lowe and Lou BiBella that if they continue to disrespect the late, great Gorilla Monsoon I will personally "co-co butt" both of them!

Dan Rafael

(12:17 PM)

LOL!

Brian Kenny (ESPN studios)

Hey Dan couldn't help noticing some of the cowboy cheerleaders being very friendly cozing on up to the King Freak. Can we expect an expose tell all account of you and the cheerleaders in Big D or do we have to wait until your Mrs is deceased before that ever see's the light of day?

Dan Rafael

(12:18 PM)

What happens in Dallas stays in Dallas.

Brock (Illinois)

DTM, I am sure you will get to see all the relevant fights this weekend. How do you watch fights without US coverage(ie Kameda-Wonjongkam)?

Dan Rafael

(12:18 PM)

I actually have a link that my sister-in-law installed in my computer that allows me to watch any channel I want live from Japan.

Bryant (Pitt)

Dan I checked the price for Roy/Bhop...50 bucks?? All I can say is wow il save that 50 til may 1st

real sports fan (USA)

Just wanted to let you know that wrestling is fake, and they predetermine all the outcomes

Dan Rafael

(12:19 PM)

REALLY????????????????????????

Nick (New York)

Any chance that Judah and King set aside their differences and make the Judah-Alexander fight?

Dan Rafael

(12:20 PM)

If by "set aside their differences" you mean "will Judah pay King back the supposed $1.2 million he owes him" I doubt it.

Peter (Philadelphia)

Do you know if Mike Jones bout on the 17th will be part of the HBO broadcast or will it be just the split site main events?

Dan Rafael

(12:21 PM)

Jones is on the Pavlik-Martinez undercard but his bout will not be televised on HBO. HBO is doing two fights that night -- Pavlik from AC and Bute from Montreal. If you want to see Mike, buy a ticket.

Don Jose Sulaiman (Cancun, Mexico)

Dan,I would like to present you with the very first prestigious WBC Silver World Championship belt for your great chats each week.

Dan Rafael

(12:21 PM)

Good, so I can burn it.

Nathan (Las Vegas)

Any chance we could get a Maidana/Cayo prediction?

Dan Rafael

(12:23 PM)

Interesting fight if you ask me. The Cayo people are VERY confident. So is Maidana. Tough one to pick. I'll go out on a limb and take the upset special and go with Cayo on points.

vinny (La)

Instead of perterson and soto do you think hbo will accept Vanes in June?

Dan Rafael

(12:23 PM)

I know that is one of the fighters Arum would like to see on there. Not sure if HBO would take him at this point for a WCB card. It would also greatly depend on his opponent. This is a big show. Can't be in with a stooge.

Mark (Brooksville, Fla.)

Dan,After reading your article on Erik Morales yesterday and the fact it seems like a lot of fighters have no plans for life after Boxing I was wondering: outside of Oscar, SRL, and George Foreman can you namr any boxers who successfully transitioned into "retirement" with a successful plan whether it involved Boxing or not?

Dan Rafael

(12:24 PM)

I think Lennox Lewis has done a nice job moving away from the ring. He seems comfortable doing television and not itching to fight again.

Carlo (Arizona)

Dan, how does an undersized Filipino-born fighter from dirt-poor beginnings become more popular in the U.S. than most American fighters? It truly is an amazing story and what makes boxing so special.

Bryant (Pitt)

Danimal Morales said he would like to fight JMM(woulda been great 5 years ago) and if they fought how fas would Marquez dispose of him?

Dan Rafael

(12:26 PM)

If (big if) Morales returns and looks good I think a match with Marquez would be possible at some point. If they had fought in their primes, I think it would have been a great, great fight. I would probably slightly favor Marquez.

Jason (Atlanta)

Dan, to add emphasis to your Blog from yesterday about casual fans tuning in for Pacquiou: I was in Vegas during the fight, and my wife, who isn't a big boxing fan but who LOVES Pacquiou, STILL ordered the fight even though I wasn't there... so yeah everybody, he's popular!!

Motor City Freak (Detroit, MI)

Shawn Porter is stepping up in competition. I am hearing rumors that Rogers Mtagwa wants to move up in weight. Can you see this as a good coming out fight for Porter?

Dan Rafael

(12:27 PM)

You smokin' today or what? Mtagwa is 122 or 126 pounder. Porter is a 154-pounder. That fight ain't happening.

Chris (PA)

Should Alexander fight and beat Maidana, would he become mandatory for Khan?

Dan Rafael

(12:28 PM)

No, because if Devon and Maidana met, Maidana would have to give up his interim belt since it's for another organization. Devon would win an interim belt. He would defend the full titles he already has.

Reid (Williamsburg, VA)

I do not have Vitali losing a single round since his return from hiatus. To me, that is domination.

Dan Rafael

(12:28 PM)

I agree. He won every fight by shutout as far as I am concerned.

South Fork Walter (LA, CA)

Who do you have for The Streak vs. The Career on Sunday?

Dan Rafael

(12:29 PM)

The Streak wins. No way is Undertaker losing.

Jeremy (Las Vegas)

Dan, have you ever interviewed Arthur Abraham? He seems like a genuinely nice guy on the Fight Camp 360 shows.

Dan Rafael

(12:31 PM)

Abraham is a really cool guy. Funny story: I was in Hollywood, Fla., to cover his rematch with Miranda a couple of years ago and was doing a story on Arthur. So I arrange with the Sauerland Event publicist to talk with Arthur privately after the press conference. So he sets us up and he's going to translate for us. And I start asking Arthur some questions. He can understand what I am saying but answering in German and the PR guy is translating for me. And then maybe 10 minutes into the interview, Arthur just starts answering questions in English. I was surprised and he just smiled. His English is pretty good, but he was just getting comfortable speaking it. So he started midway through our interview and did it the rest almost all in English with just a little bit of help from the translator. I was nicely surprised by that interview.

Aquanno (New York)

After watching boxing like all day last saturday, my brother overheard me talking about boxing in my sleep that night. Freak status?

Dan Rafael

(12:32 PM)

No, but I would reccomend a sleep specialist.

Nathan (Las Vegas)

Ever been to a fight at the Hard Rock in Vegas, Dan? Also, have you seen much of Victor Cayo? Is he going to be able to keep Maidana off him

Dan Rafael

(12:33 PM)

I have been to fights at the Hard Rock, but not in the new room where tomorrow's fights will take place. I have heard it is an excellent room though for boxing. I've seen a handful of Cayo fights. He's very good.

Josh (Lincoln, NE)

What do you think of the shot that KO'd Chambers? It didn't seem to be as big as some of the right hands he'd been eating.

Dan Rafael

(12:33 PM)

It was a sensational knockout. I think by the time Wlad landed it Eddie had very little left after a fight's worth of punishment.

Ricardo (Santa Fe, NM)

Dan, who was the most difficult or disagreeable fighter you ever interviewed?

Dan Rafael

(12:34 PM)

There have been a few. Roy Jones in his prime was a giant pain in the ass to interview. Most of the fighters are fine though once you get them cornered for the interview.

Peter (Poland)

How about Vanes vs Wolak? Would Hbo accept that?

Dan Rafael

(12:35 PM)

I doubt it. That's not a very intersting fight.

Amr (Stony Brook, NY)

hey dan, I read that valero was being accused for allegdly abusing his wife. Any more news on that? what's it mean for valero's boxing career?

Dan Rafael

(12:35 PM)

I know only what I have read and it sounds like Valero is a heap more trouble.

Matt (Denver)

Hey Dan, do you think that the smartest move for Chambers is to drop those last ten pounds and move down to Cruiser? He obviously is skilled, but like the rest of the world he has no chance of becoming a champion as long as there are folks with the name Klitschko fighting in the heavyweight division

Dan Rafael

(12:36 PM)

I think so. It's not like he didn't look like he could have taken off a few more pounds. Simply put, he can't compete with the biggest heavyweights. He did beat the bigger Dimitrenko, but Dimitrenko was not a serious contender.

Alan (South Africa)

What was the vibe like between Wladimir and Manny after the fight? Up until the ko it was the most entertainment provided.

Dan Rafael

(12:37 PM)

I spoke at length with Manny a couple of days ago after he got back from Germany and he said after the fight Wladimir apologized for not listening to him earlier and promised he would be more aggressive next time.

Raymond (Richmond, VA)

Too bad about Cunningham-Godfrey but at least ESPN tried.

Dan Rafael

(12:37 PM)

Agreed. ESPN did everything it could to preserve the fight. So did Cunningham and Main Events and Dominic Pesoli. Can't say the same for the Godfrey camp.

Jerrell (huntsville,al): [via mobile]

What times is the dirrell-abraham weigh in?

Dan Rafael

(12:38 PM)

1 pm Detroit time.

Gabe (Youngstown, Ohio)

Do you think they should raise the Cruiserweight limit to 200 or even 210? Guys like Chambers are in no-man's land.

Dan Rafael

(12:39 PM)

No. The limits they have now are just fine. I wouldn't change a thing on heavy or cruiser.

Mark (Brooksville, Fla.)

Dan,I really enjoyed your blog yesterday. Then I started reading the "comments" section. Dang the PBF fanatics really went into hysterics over your PPV numbers comparisons.....and of course trashing you. However the freaks were out in force defending the King Freak! Do you read the comments sections that are under your articles, blogs, and chats?

Dan Rafael

(12:40 PM)

I don't usually read the comments sections but I did see a few of those from yesterday because the number of comments seemed higher than usual. I don't get too crazy about them whether people agree or disagree. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I have mine, obviously. They have theirs, which is cool.

ztrain (oxford/ma)

dan how impressed were you with Edwin Rodriguez's 47 second blowout

Dan Rafael

(12:42 PM)

Quite. I thought Armenta, who I have seen many times because I saw him fight so many times because he's from the area where I live, would go the distance with him. He had never been stopped and had faced some solid opponents. So a 47-second KO was impressive. That was a great body shot. I like Rodriguez and want to see more of him.

cesar (chicago)

Hey Dan I have always wanted a DVD recorder where I can record from my DVR. Which one do you have? I know that you have said that yours is a little old but I wanna get an idea to maybe get one later on today because I want to start my own Boxing collection.

Dan Rafael

(12:43 PM)

I have about four-year-old Panasonic dual deck DVD recorder/VCR. I liked it so much when I bought it a few years ago that I went out and bought a second one identical to it for another room.

Craig D. (Philly)

Danny Boy, I do agree with you that Richard Steele should have let Meldrick Taylor continue against Chavez with 2 seconds let but what a lesson for everyone that a contest isn't over until it is over!

Dan Rafael

(12:44 PM)

That is why boxing is so great. Unlike every other sport, no matter how far behind you are you can still win up until the very last second. If you're down 21 points in football, you can't score 21 with one touchdown. You can't hit a five-run homer in baseball or sinky a five-point shot in basketball. But in boxing, you can be trailing 11 rounds to nothing and have lost the first 2:59 of the 12th round and still win with one shot.

Jeff (Los Angeles)

Is Povetkin's team actually thinking of not taking the Klitschko fight at this time?

Dan Rafael

(12:45 PM)

From what I am told, they do not want the fight at this time, which is smart, because Wlad would crush Povetkin at this point. Teddy wants no part of that right now. He knows Povetkin isn't ready for that.

Andrew (Buffalo)

Agree/Disagree.....Wlad Klitchko has been horribly marketed in the USA. If he had Arum as his promoter, I think he would be much bigger than he is now (i.e. what he's done with Pacman).

Dan Rafael

(12:46 PM)

They have dismissed the American media and American market for the most part. They make big money in Europe. They don't need America.

Ali (Tampa)

What do you make of Manny electing to keep his Ring 140 belt, a few weeks ago? You think he plans to fight another couple years to explore numerous options down there?

Dan Rafael

(12:46 PM)

I don't think he should still have it. He is not a junior welterweight. He has fought three of his last four fights at welterweight. He's a welterweight now.

Charles R. (Jax, Fl.)

Dan the Man, who do you like in the Funeka/Guzman matchup?

Dan Rafael

(12:47 PM)

I like Funeka to smack him around again.

Winky Wright (Dean's Office)

I just might have to make Tavoris Cloud and Matt Godfrey co-valedictorians this semester.

Marc (Claremont, Ca)

Hi Dan, is it true that Saul Alvarez is fighting Jose Cotto on the Mosley-May undercard? What do you think about the matchup?

Dan Rafael

(12:47 PM)

That is the likely fight. Solid step up for Alvarez if it is made.

Rob (Halifax, Canada)

Ahhhhhhhhhhh, the Panasonic plug...Can we get on for the Sharp Aquois? And while we're at it, the Love Child.......

Dan Rafael

(12:48 PM)

Hinrich (Germany)

I think that the ppv numbers of Pacquiao will be the final nail in the coffin on Manny vs. PBF. Floyd will demand more than 50 % because he will outdraw this number in his next fight with mosley. If Arum likes the number he will want to match Pacquiao with his own fighters (Margarito, Gomez...) to keep the money inhouse. Either way I don't see Pacquiao against Mayweather.

Dan Rafael

(12:49 PM)

Obviously, Mosley-Mayweather will outdraw Pacquiao-Clottey and do so by a lot. DUHHHHHHH!!!! Pac-Clottey was a one-man fight. Mosley-Mayweather involves two American stars. Big difference. It should draw a ton more. Nobody debates that or disputes that.

Bryant (Pitt)

Dan did you see Kellermanns sitdown with Shane and Floyd and if so what were your thoughts?

Dan Rafael

(12:49 PM)

I did see and it was very well done.

Luke (Alderaan)

So, with the Soto fight nixed. What's next for Anthony Peterson? He deserved that fight. Top Rank has done nothing for him lately.

Dan Rafael

(12:51 PM)

Top Rank has screwed Peterson. He should have been fighting Soto on the March 13 card, not Diaz. He was ranked higher. He didn't even get money to step aside. And now this nonsense. Top Rank has bungled its handling of the Peterson brothers from Day 1, which is a shame, because Top Rank is usually very good at matching and moving their guys. The fact that Top Rank has never even tried to put on either brother in Washington DC is a crime.

Joe (NY)

Dan since you started doing you p4p rankings how many No 1 have there been and which of them was or is the best ?

Dan Rafael

(12:52 PM)

I started doing a p4p list in April 2000 I believe. I have never missed a month since then. First I did them in USA TODAY and now on ESPN.com. I THINK the only No. 1s have been Roy Jones, Shane Mosley, Bernard Hopkins, Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather in the 10 years I have done the list.

Rob (Halifax, Canada)

Dan, why do you hate Floyd Mayweather? Kidding, I know better... but so should the rest of people posting all their BS remarks. If you don't want to accept someones oponion on a matter, go read a dictionary...

Stan (New Jersey)

Dan, i've sent a few profanity laced e-mails to the sanctioning organizations and i was wondering if you've ever done the same or even had a somewhat meaningful dialogue with any of those clowns

Dan Rafael

(12:54 PM)

One thing I assure you of -- I have never sent a profanity filled email to anyone at any sanctioning organization. I have had many lengthy and philosophical dicussions with sanctioning body folks over the years. However, talking to some of them is like talking to a brick wall. Funny thing is, on a personal level I like some of the sanctioning organization folks. We just don't agree on virtually anything.

Josh (Lincoln, NE)

I know it'll never happen, but hypothetically who wins a Wlad-Vitali fight? Gotta be Vitali because of his chin, right?

Dan Rafael

(12:54 PM)

I have always thought Vitali would win that fight if it ever happened.

Gordon (NYC)

Dan, why does Arum keep bringing up Margarito as an opponent for Pacman, didn't Roach and Manny already dismiss that fight?

Dan Rafael

(12:55 PM)

That's Arum's job -- to keep all avenues open for leverage when it comes time to make Manny's next fight.

Chris (PA)

I know Square Ring isn't packed with prospects like TR, but why didn't GBP put more interesting fights on the BHop/RJJ undercard. NOTHING about that fight interests me enough to put up $50 (or even $25)

Dan Rafael

(12:56 PM)

I agree. It's a terrible undercard. The Litzau-Juarez fight is mildly interesting. The rest? Not so much.

Tony (Tampa)

Dan,Who do you think is a harder puncher Vitali or Wladimir?

Dan Rafael

(12:56 PM)

For one shot, Wladimir.

Steven (Linlithgow, Scotland)

Dan, my brother got a blackberry today and won't shut up about how he thinks its the greatest phone ever, can you please let him know that Bat Phone>all?

Dan Rafael

(12:57 PM)

The Bat Phone does stomp all others.

jeff (phoenix)

Dan,Obviously Wlad and Vitali are the most dominent heavies of their era...It's a shame that there is no respectable competition to define them as HOF worthy.

Dan Rafael

(12:58 PM)

All they can do is fight the guys in their era and they have been systematically cleaning out the division. They have both fought all comers, never ducked ANYONE and beaten most opponents EASILY. Can't argue with the results. They might not be all that exciting but they kick everyone's ass.

NYPD Blue (Brooklyn)

Got me one of them Panasonics on Ebay -- ordered the remote (which was missing) straight from the company. Great machine!

Jeff (OH)

Dan, I watched Lennox-Vitali for the first time this weekend on YouTube. I can see why Lennox wanted nothing to do with a rematch. Your thoughts on the stoppage?

Dan Rafael

(12:59 PM)

Perfect stoppage. That was literally the worst cut I have ever seen. And a monster punch opened it. Totally legit TKO.

Joe the Barber (NYC)

I love Kelly Pavlik...he's one of my favorite fighters, but Jack Loew certainly has a big mouth for such an average, overrated trainer. Do you recall him talking smack about Bernard Hopkins before that fight?

Dan Rafael

(1:00 PM)

jeff (phoenix)

Dan,When you mulling over a decision to vote for a fighter for the HOF do you take into account their amateur credentials? For instance Olympic performances ect...

Dan Rafael

(1:01 PM)

That is a small part of it, but yes. If a guy also has a huge amateur background and an Olympic medal or something, I think that is legitimate to consider when voting.

joe (east meadow, NY)

Dan, most rationale people realize Mayweather-Mosely should do better #s, but Floys will use it as an excuse to say he deserves a higher % of the revenue

Dan Rafael

(1:01 PM)

So be it.

BJ (LA)

Dan, at what age did you realize that pro-wrestling is fake?

Dan Rafael

(1:02 PM)

PRO WRESTLING IS FAKE????????????????????

Brendan (Queens, NY)

Dantastic, Has "Iceman" John Scullt taken one to many shots to the ole noggin? It sounds like he is the brains behind Godfrey's decision not to go through with the fight. On top of that he had some not so kind words about you on his facebook page. Does he not realize he trains Matt Godfrey not a Manny Pacquiao esque fighter?

Dan Rafael

(1:04 PM)

Scully is entitled to his opinion. If he wants to be upset with me, I can't do anything about it. I wrote my opinion based on the facts as I know them. I will say this though -- at the end of the day the did blow their chances for a title fight with Cunningham. And that's their problem, not mine.

Dan Rafael

(1:04 PM)

We have some minor breaking news via the Bat E-mail.

Dan Rafael

(1:05 PM)

Golden Boy prospects Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman are both off Saturday's Hard Rock show. They couldn't find and opponent for Broner and Thurman's opponent failed his eye exam.

psycho (LaLaLand)

u had calzaghe at no.1 once on the p4p

Dan Rafael

(1:06 PM)

Maybe for a minute. Could be.

R! (Yay Area)

Since Povetkin isnt ready or Haye is all nonsense, what are the chances we see Sam Peter vs Wlad II?

Dan Rafael

(1:07 PM)

I think there is a reasonable chance we will see it.

Tim (St. Lou)

Lennox looks comfortable on TV-really???

Dan Rafael

(1:08 PM)

I said looks, I didn't say sounds.

BJ (LA)

How bout the upsets on March Madness? Who do you got?

Dan Rafael

(1:08 PM)

I'm a Duke man all the way and our path to the title has gotten a little easier with Syracuse and Kansas going down!!!!!!!!!

Ryan (Boston)

Dan, any interest at all in B-Hop/RJJ?

Dan Rafael

(1:09 PM)

I am personally interested to some degree. I have covered both guys for a long time. I know both guys pretty well over the past 10 years. I have probably written tens of thousands of words on their careers. So I am going to the fight and what will be will be.

Bob (The Poconos)

D-$, Far be it from me to question your division-by-division rankings but Ia??m curious as to your rationale for putting Mosley at the top of the heap in the Welterweight division over Manny. Mosleya??s only notable wins as a WW came years ago in De La Hoya I, then against Collazo and Margarito. His notable losses at WW? Forrest X2 and Cotto. Meanwhile, Manny beat Cotto, De La Hoya and Clottey all at or around 147. Thoughts?

Dan Rafael

(1:11 PM)

Mosley is No. 1 because he is considered by most to be THE champion of the division after slaughtering Margarito. He has a long track record in the division and beat the No. 1 guy to become No. 1. Pacquiao's accomplishments at welter are not what Mosley's are and neither are Floyd's. He gave up the No. 1 spot in the division when he gave up the title and retired.

Dalyn (Carson, CA)

To piggyback off of R's comment, how about a Haye v. Povetkin fight?

Dan Rafael

(1:12 PM)

I like it.

Huff (DeKalb, IL)

I still can't get over the fact that The Ring's preview for the Super 6 stated in Abraham's information that he was not a 1 punch knockout puncher. He might be the best 1 punch KO artist in boxing today.

Dan Rafael

(1:12 PM)

If that was really written, that is pathetic.

Kris Krepps (GR)

Were is Mosely training?

Dan Rafael

(1:13 PM)

Big Bear, Calif.

Mike (Detroit, MI)

Danimal, I'll be at the Super Six tomorrow. Can't wait! Hearts says Direll and Head says Abraham!

Chris (Vancouver BC)

Simple hypothetical. Ladder match. No rules. B Hop vs Supa Fly Jimmy?

Dan Rafael

(1:13 PM)

Snuka.

Corey (WestWick)

Its to bad you didn't make the trip to Detroit and the fight live at the Joe. Have you ever been there to see a fight ?

Dan Rafael

(1:15 PM)

I have a lot of travel coming up and just did back to back trips, so I decided not travel this weekend (also in part because it's my anniversary this weekend). I have covered fights in Detroit before a couple of times but not at the Joe Louis Arena. I covered fights at Cobo Hall (which is next door) and at the arena in Auburn Hills.

Jeff (OH)

I just read your USAT recap of the Lewis-Vitali fight. The doctor said that a flap of skin above Vitali's eye was dangling and blocking is line of vision. He said Vitali had to tilt his head back to look the doctor in the eye. Yeah, I'd say that's grotesque. LOL.

Srithar (Toronto)

Who do you think Haye will fight after Ruiz? Which Klitschko will he fight first? (Possibly two different questions)

Dan Rafael

(1:17 PM)

I think if Haye beats Ruiz (which is no guarantee) then Haye will hopefully face one of the brothers. I think they are deciding between themselves who gets the chance to destroy Haye.

Steven (Linlithgow, Scotland)

If the final of the Super 6 turns out to be an all european affair, will it still be held in America?

Dan Rafael

(1:17 PM)

Yes, according to the master contract the final is supposed to be in the US.

Gerardo (AZ)

Any chance of Huck Vs. Minto being on tv?

Dan Rafael

(1:17 PM)

Not in the United States.

Carnell (Washington)

Paging a Peterson Brother's fight in Washington, DC.

Chris (Rottterdam Jct, NY)

Buy or Sell. Randall Bailey is the most crushing one punch KO artist since Julian Jackson?

Dan Rafael

(1:18 PM)

Bailey is a sick KO puncher, one of the best I have ever seen.

Joe (San Francisco, CA)

I'm going to be in Vegas next weekend for something unrelated and am going to go to the Hopkins-Jones fight. Any idea what bars in Mandalay on either Friday or Saturday night might be frequented by boxing fighters/media?

Dan Rafael

(1:20 PM)

If there's a fight in town, you can find the boxing folks pretty much anywhere where they serve cool, refreshing beverages.

Braindamaged2too (the Asylum)

I heard John Scully used to be a financial advisor as well. He told his clients Bernie Madoff was a sure thing!!!

Dan Rafael

(1:20 PM)

Hilarious.

Steve (NYC)

You criticized Vitali for his next fight. Who would have been a resaonable choice then?

Dan Rafael

(1:22 PM)

Literally just about anyone other than Sosnowski. Literally. Audley Harrison would have been better. Solis would have been better. Boytsov would have been better. David Tua, Shannon Briggs, etc... Sosnowski is terrible.

Dan Rafael

(1:23 PM)

In case you have not read the weekly notebook, here is the link: http://espn.go.com/sports/boxing/notebook/_/id/5028610/andre-dirrell-happy-fighting-home

Hayden (Logan, Utah)

Have you ever been afraid for your life when doing an interview?

Dan Rafael

(1:24 PM)

LOL. No.

Chief Jay Strongbow (The Reservation)

D-T-M,Did I hear that the "Co-Co-Nut" himself, Mr. Bo Bo Brazil was around here? I'll "tomahawk-chop" him down to the mat. I also will take Jack Lowe in 3 rounds over DiBella!

Aaron (MA)

how excited are you that Peter Manfredo is fighting for the IBO middleweight Title?

Dan Rafael

(1:24 PM)

Less excited than I am about paying this month's mortgage.

psycho (LaLaLand)

in the UK, a lot are shouting out loud with a certain WW Kell Brook as being the future of the division. I know how 'fond' the brits are of their boys, so what is your assessment king freak?

Dan Rafael

(1:25 PM)

I've seen some Brook fights. Good prospect. I am not as overly excited as some of the Brits, who tend to get excited when the wind blows.

jeff (phoenix)

Dan,Dirrell is fools gold....the guys fights brilliantly in flahes but then reverts to clutching and complaining. I can't think of a scenario in which he beats Abraham. Once Abraham (who's in his prime) starts to pressure him in about the 5th or 6th Dirrell will fold!

Brendan (Queens, NY)

Jumpin on Chris' question, Bailey blasting Bonsu has to be the front runner for ko of the year, his legs crumbled like clay

Dan Rafael

(1:26 PM)

I would say Wlad's KO of Chambers is up there right now too, but Bailey's was awesome. The right hand was sick and the left crushed him.

Mark (Brooksville, Fla.)

Dan,Happy 6th Anniversery to you and Jenn. May you both have a great time. And much love to THE woman who allows us to have RADs, and regular marathon chats with her other half!

Dan Rafael

(1:27 PM)

Thanks. I will pass that along to Mrs. DTM.

NYPD Blue (Brooklyn)

We'll see ... I think you'll be surprised at Sosnowski's efforts against Vitali.

Dan Rafael

(1:28 PM)

It's not the effort that I am thinking of. It's the one-sided butt whupping result I am talking about.

Craig D. (Philly)

I like Dirrell to beat Abraham on points. Andre better be on his horse throwing combinations, and moving in and out or King Arthur is liable to detach him from his senses. I'd hate to see that unless it was simply spectacular. Let's go Matrix!

Robert the Genius (Greater Philly / Southern NJ)

Where does Pavlik go if he beats Martinez? To Super Middle and face Bute or stay at 160 and defend against P-Will?

Dan Rafael

(1:28 PM)

Both would be options.

Joe (Ny)

You must have some serious sky miles built up Dan

Dan Rafael

(1:29 PM)

Thankfully, I do.

Ryan (Chicago)

Can someone provide a link to the recent Bailey KO?

Dan Rafael

(1:29 PM)

It's on youtube, just do a search.

Brandon (Waukegan)

Who will P-Wills next opponent be?

Dan Rafael

(1:29 PM)

Kermit Cintron on May 8 on HBO.

Dan Rafael

(1:30 PM)

Freaks, we have a message via Bat E-mail:

Dan Rafael

(1:31 PM)

For those who plan to buy the Morales-Alfaro PPV on Saturday night who use DirecTV: The card will be on Ch. 456 not the usual PPV station where you would look for fights.

Alan (South Africa)

Imagine you've been in a coma for approx. ten years and when you wake up you find out that Hopkins-Jones2 is taking place in Vegas and the following weekend the real deal takes on the white buffalo. You'd feel much better!

Dan Rafael

(1:32 PM)

That is a great point.

Brendan (Philadelphia)

Dan, if a bully stole your milk money &#x26; you could pick one fighter, past or present, to get it back for you, who would it be?

Dan Rafael

(1:32 PM)

Well if the bully was a 135-pounder or smaller, I would pick Mayweather because he's great at fighting smaller guys.

psycho (LaLaLand)

Audley Harrison??? i spilled coke on my laptop when i read that. Dan, audley is afraid to get hit!!! is sosnowski THAT BAD?????????????????

Dan Rafael

(1:32 PM)

YES.

Joe (Ny)

Less excited than I am about paying this month's mortgage. LMAO quote of the month

Dan Rafael

(1:33 PM)

Dude -- I was serious when I said that.

Dan (Chicago)

Sergio Mora vs. Calvin Green? What's this?

Dan Rafael

(1:33 PM)

The fight when you go to the can or get a snack or call your mother to tell her you love her.

Jeff (Phoenix)

No one bashing you today because of your opinions on the Pretty Boy? Unbelievable!

Dan Rafael

(1:34 PM)

Believe it or not, it's been quiet on that front.

Javier (Puerto Rico)

dan I know you will be attending pavlik vs martinez In AC on the 17th but any chance you will be at the quintana berto fight on the 10th?

Dan Rafael

(1:34 PM)

I will be at Berto-Quintana, yes.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

At least paying the mortgage provides some benefit, such as a place to live.

Dan Rafael

(1:35 PM)

Agreed. Interest in who has an IBO title provides nothing.

Don Jose Sulaiman (Mexico)

Dan, will you be my Facebook friend?

Dan Rafael

(1:36 PM)

No.

cesar (chicago)

how many fights on the Morales PP? I heard a fight was pulled yesterday.

Dan Rafael

(1:36 PM)

Four at least. One was pulled but replaced by another.

Todd (Bridgewater, NJ)

On the topic of play-by-play announcers, Gorilla Monsoon was actually better than Lennox Lewis.

Dan Rafael

(1:37 PM)

When I was a kid Monsoon and Vince McMahon were awesome calling the WWF action.

Benjamin (Little Rock, Ark.)

Just caught Bailey's KO of Bonsu on YouTube. Wow. Bullet-fast and wrecking-ball weight. Bonsu got hit so hard it looks like he was slapped around the ring.

The Good Doctor Filth (Cleveland)

Surprised Sulaiman would ask you to be his friend without charging you 100k.

Brendan (Queens, NY)

Here is the link for the bailey destruction of bonsu http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX_OKO25XcA

jeff (Phoenix)

the chat should become a bit more lively after that crackback on Money!

Floyd Mayweather SR (A Little South of Sanity)

My 6th grade education tells me that Dan must be using steriods to hold this long of chats.

Rob (Denton, Tx)

Did you see Glen Tapia last week? Man that dude looks like a serious prospect, cant wait to see him again.

Dan Rafael

(1:39 PM)

Tapia looks good. Top Rank is high on the kid and his manager Pat Lynch is an experienced guy. I look forward to seeing more of him as well.

guido (berlin, Germany)

Dan, do you have any results of the weigh in AA - Dirrell already? Can't find a live thread...

Dan Rafael

(1:40 PM)

Hasn't happened yet.

Garth (CT)

Dan, I think you are giving the Wlad's KO more credit because Chambers ended up dangling between the ropes. The punch actually didn't land that clean and actually looked like he hit mostly glove.

Dan Rafael

(1:41 PM)

Whatever works dude. So he knocked out cold with a punch that didn't land clean? That makes it even more impressive. And, yes, when a guy hits a guy so that he dangels on the ropes like dish rag and is out cold, I am impressed.

Eric (DC)

I thought it was funny that people gave you a hard time about your comments on Klitschko's performance last week, considering his own trainer was calling him out DURING the fight.

Dan Rafael

(1:42 PM)

Exactly. Manny was really ticked off that he wouldn't go get Chambers.

Brandon (L.A.)

Perro's hit on Harry Joe Yorgy was up there with Bailey's I think

Dan Rafael

(1:43 PM)

Maybe so, but Bailey has scored knockouts like that time and again.

Dustin (West Palm Beach)

DTM, I'm flying home for the Dirrell fight, so psyched. My inside source at the Joe tells me as of a couple days ago they had only sold 5,000 tickets.

Dan Rafael

(1:43 PM)

If that's true, it's actually not too bad considering Dirrell has only fought once previously in his home state and never in a meaningful fight.

Jimmy (Philadelphia PA)

Danno...I saw Campillo/Shumanov II at The New Joint (HArd Rock) in Las Vegas...WOW!! Seats 2,000 for boxing. Maybe the best small venue in the US.

James (Blythe, CA)

Nice to read your story on HBO putting every good fight on PPV again. I understand the economics of the sport, but an HBO PPV every other month? Didn't we wear that one out a couple years ago?

Dan Rafael

(1:46 PM)

Every good fight? What are you talking about? Pavlik-Martinez is live HBO, Foreman-Cotto will be live HBO. So will Pascal-Dawson, etc... Are you feeling OK?

Chewy (Tacoma)

Is the Mayweather vs. Mosley fight sold out yet?

Dan Rafael

(1:46 PM)

Not that I aware of, no.

BJ (LA)

Will A. Peterson now fight for the interim belt?

Dan Rafael

(1:47 PM)

Up in the air. He shouldn't fight for an interim belt. He should be fighting Soto fight the title.

Cody (Tennessee)

When is Randall Bailey fighting again?

Dan Rafael

(1:47 PM)

Not soon enough.

Arlo (LA)

Will there be a Jorge Diaz-Alejandro Lopez rematch?

Dan Rafael

(1:48 PM)

Hasn't been mentioned, but I could see it happening in a couple of fights down the road.

Brian (Toronto)

You have to admit, Jack Loew is a great interview and trash talker.

Dan Rafael

(1:49 PM)

Definitely.

Kent (St Catharines)

DTM, just referring to an earlier question about the HOF and whether or not you take the fighters amateur backgrounds into consideration. Are there any fighters (possibly Cuban) fighters that had lengthy dominate amateur careers but never turned pro that are in the HOF?

Dan Rafael

(1:49 PM)

Not that I am aware of.

Lou (Detroit)

Dan-O, do you think Hopkins faces the winner of Haye-Ruiz? Crazy as it sounds, I have Hopkins the favorite over either of them.

Dan Rafael

(1:50 PM)

Hopkins has said he would like to fight Haye for the heavyweight belt. It is possible but several things would have to happen first, not the least of which is he has to beat Jones and Haye has to beat Ruiz.

chris (oklahoma city)

Dan, what do you think is a better "under the radar" fight, meaning a fight that will be a great fight but not recognized by people who aren't fight freaks... Maidana/Cayo or Mares/Perez?

Dan Rafael

(1:50 PM)

Off the top of my head, one fight I really like is the Katsidis-Kevin Mitchell fight on May 15.

Rick (Marina)

What up Dan, Im late did Abner Mares win last night?

Dan Rafael

(1:51 PM)

Yes, he scored a fifth-round knockout. Now he is set for a May 22 title shot with Yonnhy Perez for a bantamweight belt.

Luke (LA)

Will the Marquez/Diaz fight be at 140 or Lightweight? and why?

Dan Rafael

(1:52 PM)

135 for Marquez's title.

Hayden (Logan, Utah)

what is your favorite beer?

Dan Rafael

(1:52 PM)

Root.

Aaron (MA)

is Sven Ottke HOF worthy?

Dan Rafael

(1:53 PM)

In my mind, definitely not. I watched literally every one of his fights from a couple of bouts before he won the title to the end of his career. He is not HOF worthy despite his record. He got sooo many gift decisions it is unreal.

Gus (Passaic, NJ)

In your notebook it show that Chris John's nest opponent, Saucedo has 1 ko in over 40 fights?? Is that a typo??

Dan Rafael

(1:55 PM)

Nope. I actually did a double take too, but it's accurate.

Khalil (Atlanta, GA)

Dan, one thing you forgot to mention about Pacquiao's impressive attendance/PPV numbers is that he's doing it in one of the worst economies ever.

Dan Rafael

(1:56 PM)

Excellent point.

NYPD Blue (Brooklyn)

5000 tickets is pretty sad for the Joe Louis Arena: but since no one lives in Detroit anymore, what can one expect? The place is a ghost town.

John (NYC)

If Pacquiao doesn't fight the Mayweather-Mosley winner for whatever reason, who would be your personal preference for him to fight instead?

Dan Rafael

(1:58 PM)

I don't even want to think about it.

Robert the Genius (Greater Philly / Southern NJ)

Is Paul Spatafore the real deal?

Dan Rafael

(1:58 PM)

No, that's Evander Holyfield.

NYPD Blue (Brooklyn)

Dirrell 167.5, Abraham 168 even.

jack (jumping over the candlestick)

Is Mosley a big ppv draw?

Dan Rafael

(1:59 PM)

Not on his own, no, but he has always been a great B-side, which he was for Oscar twice, Vargas twice and Cotto. And the win over Margarito will certainly help him going into the fight with Mayweather.

Nick (Queens)

Dan... If Margarito claims he didn't know his gloves were going to be loaded before the Mosley fight, how can he say that he knows for a fact that they weren't loaded before the Cotto fight? That doesn't make sense to me.

Dan Rafael

(2:00 PM)

Exactly.

Norm Chad (Vegas)

Pay the Dan, Shirley!

Kevin (Boston)

Dan, am I the only one who has been kind of disappointed in the fox sports boxing coverage? I mean I was pumped when I first saw how many shows were on the schedule. I haven't seen one fight live, most times not even a replay. Just saying its a little disappointing.

Dan Rafael

(2:01 PM)

Every one is live on Fox en Espanol. And you may live where the English affiliate doesn't carry the fights. Where I live we have gotten most in English. But we also get every one in Spanish. What sucks is that our local Fox affiliate has been brutal with Golden Boy's Fight Night Club.

John (NYC)

Do you touch-type or hunt-and-peck?

Dan Rafael

(2:02 PM)

Touch and type.

John (NYC)

Kevin from Boston is out of his mind. Just watch the fights en Espanol. They've been amazing.

bill (carmel, ny)

dan, the only logical explanation i can think of for godfrey not fighting is that once the fight was called of he did some things that would have been issues with passing tests.

Dan Rafael

(2:03 PM)

I thought of that and more than one boxing person who ripped their side for not taking the fight also suggested that. But I have no idea.

GK (Scotland)

No Nathan Cleverly in the Light-Heavyweight rankings?

Dan Rafael

(2:04 PM)

Not yet. What has he done to deserve that? Oh, I know: NOTHING.

John (Grand Rapids, Mi)

Dan, SOOOO Pumped, I get to check out the April 3 Fights in Corpus since I'll be down there visiting my Dad for spring break. Tickets are buy one get one free South Texas Freaks... My first live fight since Mayweather vs Hernandez in 01'.

Dan Rafael

(2:04 PM)

Nice.

Matt (Washington, DC)

Love your rankings but just want to throw out there that I think you have Carlos Quintana too low. Inactivity is his big problem, but his only losses are to Williams and Cotto and his win over Williams makes him one of only three people to beat a top 5 guy on your P4P list in the last four years (Quintana, Calzaghe, and Cotto).

Dan Rafael

(2:06 PM)

Inactivity is a huge factor. He also looked like crapola in his last fight.

Patrick (Camp Lejeune, NC)

Do you think the Dirrel/Abraham fight will be an exciting one, given their vastly differing styles?

Dan Rafael

(2:07 PM)

It's hard to envision Dirrell in an exciting fight because of the way he fights, but I hope Abraham can force him to mix it up a little more.

Owt Kold (Cali)

As a Virgin Islander and a friend of the great Julian Jackson, I was wondering have you seen either of his two sons fight? They are really good and stepping up in competition.

Dan Rafael

(2:07 PM)

I have seen them fight. In fact one of his sons had his last fight a couple of weeks ago and it was televised on ESPN Deportes from the Dominican Republic.

Leo (Greensburg, PA)

Smart move for Minto to go down to Cruiserweight. He?s got a better chance at grabbing a title.

Dan Rafael

(2:08 PM)

Defintely a smart move. He had no future at heavyweight in terms of winning a meaningful fight. At cruiser, he at least has a chance.

chris (oklahoma city)

Dan, I realize this is more of the opposing promoters' fault in the Super Six, but do you feel that Ward maybe has an unfair advantage with his first 2 bouts being in his hometown?

Dan Rafael

(2:08 PM)

Not at all.

George (Fontana,CA)

Dan, why is Fernando Montiel still on your Boxing schedule to fight in Tokyo. I thought that fight was not happening?

Dan Rafael

(2:09 PM)

As far as I am told by Montiel's people, the fight is on.

Joe (NYC)

When will Klitschko-Povetkin take place?

Dan Rafael

(2:09 PM)

Half past never.

Justin (Houston)

Dan, whats up with The JMM, Diaz rematch? Although the 1st fight was great &#x26; FOY, I thought it was pretty conclusive, and would expect an even more decisive victory for Marquez if they face off again, I think there is a lot better fights out there for both JMM and Diaz.

Dan Rafael

(2:10 PM)

I don't think there are any fights out there right now that are legitimately makable for either guy that can generate more money than their rematch. If you think there are name 'em.

Gordon (NYC)

D$: so no American TV for Gamboa's next fight in Germany?

Dan Rafael

(2:11 PM)

Gamboa's fight on Saturday will take place in Germany and a few hours later, Top Rank will show highlights during the Top Rank Live card that night. At some point in the future, Top Rank told me it will show the full fight.

Edubb (Sactown)

Will you be going to Yankee Stadium for the Cotto vs Foreman fight? Have you ever attended a fight at the old Yankee stadium? Thanks

Dan Rafael

(2:12 PM)

Of course I will. No, I never attended a fight at old Yankee Stadium. The last fight there was in like 1976, when I was 6.

Deano (Virginia)

how do Richards and Minto both get title shots before BJ Flores??? Befuddling...

Dan Rafael

(2:12 PM)

Probably because BJ Flores has turned down a title shot.

jimmy (hoboken)

If el terrible gets by alfaro, could you see a hatton-morales fight at 140?

Dan Rafael

(2:13 PM)

Shame on your for even suggesting that!

Justin (Sactown,CA)

DTM, next time FNF dials you up on that new Web Cam thing, the Freaks want to see the new "Dallas" coffee mug prominetly featured in the background!!

Dan Rafael

(2:13 PM)

I might be able to make that happen.

dantheboxingfan (flanders NJ)

Dan ever think that Walter the freak knew you were going to be at Southfork and made a trip to meet you?

Dan Rafael

(2:14 PM)

Ummmm, no. Nobody knew when I was going except for my companion who drove us there!

Jim Lampley (Dallas)

Bang.. Bang.. Bang... Bang... Bang.. Bang..!!!!

chris (oklahoma city)

Dan, I know you and I have had a difference of opinion on things, but this month marks 4 solid years of me reading virtually every article you've had the ESPN website. I appreciate the hard work homes

Dan Rafael

(2:16 PM)

Nice. I do appreciate the readership from all Freaks, even the ones who don't agree with me.

Robert (29 Floor Above Sea Level)

If anyone needs proof that boxing affects the brain, just read the comment Morales made about fighting Paquio again. Need I say more.

Dan Rafael

(2:17 PM)

That is wishful thinking on Morales' part. He needs to watch the fight of the third fight, where he got brutalized and then quit.

Jeff ( LV nev)

Dan, Is Barrerra officially done?

Dan Rafael

(2:18 PM)

Done with what? With breakfast? With lunch? Tying his shoe?

JR Ewing (Southfork)

Who would win in a fight between me and Bobby?

Dan Rafael

(2:18 PM)

Well Bobby did whip your ass in the fight for Ewing Oil, and he is younger and stronger, so I like Bobby James Ewing in that one.

Vinnie (Newark, NJ)

I don't know what Abraham?s handlers are thinking allowing the fight to take place in Dirrell's backyard.

Dan Rafael

(2:20 PM)

They didn't have a choice. The bout was considered a Dirrell home bout, so it was up to Gary Shaw to determine the venue, not the Germans.

Rob (Denton, Tx)

Why would GBP do a rematch of Diaz-Marquez in Vegas on PPV ?

Dan Rafael

(2:20 PM)

Why wouldn't they?

Rafa (PR)

Wrestlemania at Cowboys Stadium anytime soon? Jerry Jones teaming up with Vince McMahon would be lethal.

Dan Rafael

(2:21 PM)

Agreed.

Kevin (Greensboro, NC)

Too bad about the Cunningham-Godfrey cancellation but I give the ESPN execs ? and the Duvas ? major kudos for their tireless efforts. Please extend the freaks appreciation.

JP (Columbus, OH)

Don't forget, your Dukes are also on the schedule this weekend. Hopefully twice!

Dan Rafael

(2:22 PM)

Obviously. I will be watching tonight for sure. Makes FNF being called off easier to take. Now I can watch the game without having to go back and forth to the fights.

Sam (NH)

I think JR Ewing could steal Carl Froch's lady.

Dan Rafael

(2:23 PM)

I agree. JR could seduce any woman.

chuzen (st. louis)

dan, thanks for calling out the st. louis post dispatch for their horrible coverage of alexander's recent fight. its a shame that a we have a champion with a great future that only the freaks no about

Dan Rafael

(2:25 PM)

I was really shocked by the paper's horrible coverage of that fight, especially because it had previously done a solid job covering him and Spinks.

Steve (NYC)

Who is the best reginoal draw in America? I say Adamek.

Dan Rafael

(2:26 PM)

He's definitely up there. He packs the place in Newark. But I would also say guys like Pavlik in Atlantic City and even a kid like Escalante in El Paso, who sells a lot of tickets there.

Kevin (Boston)

Dan, trying to form a new freak out of my wife. She is Korean and we watched the Kim fight with me. She keeps asking me about when he will fight again. Do you see him getting a title shot at 130 or 135? I no he has fought a lot at 130 and that division is wide open right now.

Dan Rafael

(2:26 PM)

He has an ESPN2 fight on the schedule and if he keeps winning, I wouldn't be surprised to see him moved into a mandatory position at some point. He is exciting to watch.

Sam (NH)

Ward is becoming a big draw in Oakland.

Dan Rafael

(2:27 PM)

Also true. And so is Fernando Guerrero in his region in Maryland.

Duff (Abington, MA)

Dan Rafael

(2:28 PM)

Good point.

Deano (Virginia)

what do you think of Troy Ross. Outside of being ripped like a statue he's probably the most skilled CW in the division imo. You mentioned possibly Cunningham-Ross for the vactant IBF....any traction to that?

Dan Rafael

(2:29 PM)

Ross is a very solid contender. He is next in line in the IBF rankings behind Godfrey and would be next to fight Cunningham for the vacant belt. I have spoken to his side and they say they want the fight and are ready to negotiate for the Cunningham fight.

Jim (Balt)

April 9th for Cotto-Foreman, is the Notebook right? Abraham over Dirrell by TKO 10.

Dan Rafael

(2:30 PM)

April 9 is the date of the news confernece to formally announce the fight. You need to read more closely.

Greg D (DC)

What happens to the Mandatory in Povetkin refuses?

Dan Rafael

(2:31 PM)

Sam Peter would get the mandatory shot.

Aaron (MA)

is ESPN showing the Estrada/Lora fight on Saturday April 10? It is on the updated schedule.

Dan Rafael

(2:32 PM)

Yes, that week the show is on Saturday.

Gordon (NYC)

D$: will HBO and Showtime ever end the greed and stop having their boxing cards on the same night????

Dan Rafael

(2:32 PM)

Nizzi (Des Moines, IA)

stacey (Blacksburg, VA)

DTM: any truth to the German website reports that Eddie Chambers stopped breathing for 20 seconds and nearly died after the KO from Wlad?

Dan Rafael

(2:33 PM)

As far as I know it was never that serious. He was knocked out and stayed in Germany an extra day or two as a precaution to make sure he was OK and in case he had a concussion.

Miggy (Staten Island)

Sue Ellen or Pamela?

Dan Rafael

(2:33 PM)

I was always a Pam man.

bing (philly)

pbf is a pretty big draw in vegas

Dan Rafael

(2:34 PM)

Really? Couldn't sell out for his fight with Marquez.

Lon G (Greensboro, NC)

Is Hopkins-Jones on HBO PPV or is it an independent PPV?

Dan Rafael

(2:35 PM)

HBO PPV is distributing the fight. Golden Boy and Square Ring are producing it. It won't look like an HBO card and it won't use HBO announcers and if you are asking if there will be a replay next week on HBO, the answer is no. If you want to see the fight, buy the PPV because there is no replay scheduled.

Drew (Cleveland, OH)

So once again, no boxing at all on FSN this weekend in my area. They haven't shown a single one yet this year.

Dan Rafael

(2:38 PM)

Move or get a dish.

Tom (Kingston Ontario)

Is it true that there will be protesters at the Jones Hopkins fight. AARP(American Association of Retired People) claiming elder abuse?? Also what is more likely to happen a KO or a broken hip?

Dan Rafael

(2:38 PM)

Pay the man, Shirley.

Julio (Gumi (South Korea))

On the Manny Paquiao/Floyd Mayweather negotiationsDan as a boxing reporter, does it not strike you as odd when Top Rank tells you the cut off date for the blood testing is 24 days, yet Freddie Roach has been or record saying it was 14?

Dan Rafael

(2:40 PM)

Freddie is wrong.

Kyle (Omaha)

I'll be in Montreal during the time of the Chad Dawson fight! Do you have an information of when those tickets might go on sale? Will that fight sell out in an instance? Its my first major boxing match ever and just want to get my bases covered! Thanks

Dan Rafael

(2:40 PM)

Not yet.

Ron Mexico 619 (San Diego)

DTM- besides Oscar v. Floyd (boring as hell), which BIG PPV was the biggest let down for you??

Dan Rafael

(2:41 PM)

Oscar-Tito. Fight stunk.

chuzen (st. louis)

dances with the wolves, in the notebook, dirrell felt he would have no chance at winning the tournament if he were to get another loss. this brings up a question ive been thinking about, is there anything in the contract to prevent a fighter from backing out of the tournament because he doesnt want to risk a third loss?

Dan Rafael

(2:43 PM)

No. You can't make a guy fight. If one of the Super Six wants to drop out they can.

Randy (Milwaukee)

Oscar - Tito stunk?? Oscar put on a boxing clinic for 8 or 9 rounds. I thought it was masterful.

Dan Rafael

(2:44 PM)

Yeah but the fight sucked. It was a boring one-sided fight that going in most people thought would be exciting. Oscar played with Tito and got robbed.

Brent (Chicago)

Arum and Golden Boy should put Jerry Jones in charge of the Pacquiao-Mayweather negotiations. Dude is a closer.

Dan Rafael

(2:44 PM)

I love that idea.

John (Albany)

Dan, I really do not like you.

Dan Rafael

(2:44 PM)

Good, because I don't like you either.

Neil (Boston, MA)

Aurthur stoppage in the 7th.

Ron Mexico 619 (San Diego)

DTM- besides Corrales v. Castillo, which was the best BIG fight you saw in the last couple of years?? BTW- totally agree on Oscar v. Tito!

Dan Rafael

(2:45 PM)

There have been a lot. Of fights I was at, there is Barrera-Morales 3, Gatti-Ward 3, Lewis-Klitschko, MArquez-Diaz, etc...

don (boston)

DTM speaking of that DLH v. pbf fight, how did you have it scored?

Dan Rafael

(2:45 PM)

As I recall, I had floyd winning 116-112.

Dan Rafael

(2:49 PM)

OK Fight Freaks, thanks for chatting today. Hope you enjoy a big weekend of fights. Talk to you next week from Vegas, where I will be covering Jones-Hopkins 2. Peace.